In an explosive new storyline on EastEnders, tensions rise as Joel (Alex Walkinshaw) spirals further out of control, much to the concern of his father, Ross (also Alex Walkinshaw). Ross takes Joel and Tommy Moon (Sonny Kendall) to the timber yard, hoping to get advice from Vicki Fowler (Alice Haig) about how to manage Joel’s increasingly unruly behavior. However, the trip takes a turn when Ross overhears inappropriate language used by the other workers, which makes him worry about the negative influences around his son.

As if the situation wasn’t complicated enough, Ross receives an unexpected call from Joel’s mother, who informs him that she is remarrying. This news adds more pressure on Ross as he tries to navigate his son’s rebellious actions while dealing with his personal life.

Joel, feeling increasingly alienated, sneaks out to meet Tommy at The Queen Vic. The two boys decide to steal alcohol from the barrel store, putting themselves in more trouble. When Ross, Vicki, Alfie (Shane Richie), and Kat Slater (Jessie Wallace) catch them in the act, Joel’s disrespectful attitude towards Kat shocks the adults. This moment marks a turning point for Ross, who is taken aback by his son’s behavior.

Ross and Vicki are left no choice but to scold Joel for his actions. While Ross tries to find a way to connect with his son, things take a darker turn when Ross discovers something concerning on Joel’s laptop. He finds a video from Joel’s favorite influencer, which Ross believes to be harmless, but when he digs deeper, he realizes that the content is much more troubling. In a moment of frustration and desperation, Ross destroys the laptop, making a bold statement about his disapproval.

Following the destruction of the laptop, Ross becomes distant with Joel, deciding that he can no longer allow him to come to work with him. Vicki is surprised by Ross’s actions and encourages him to be stricter with Joel, warning that his behavior will only escalate if left unchecked. Ross finds himself conflicted, torn between being a strict parent and wanting to connect with his son on a deeper level.

Meanwhile, Ross has a heartfelt conversation with Harvey Monroe (Ross Boatman), who offers some much-needed perspective. The conversation forces Ross to reflect on his own actions and the path he is taking with Joel. Despite the tension, Joel eventually apologizes to Kat for his rude behavior, and Kat, showing her forgiving side, allows him to spend time with Tommy. This moment of reconciliation offers a glimmer of hope for Joel’s relationship with the adults in his life, but his future remains uncertain.

As the storyline continues to unfold, Ross’s struggle to balance discipline and understanding with his son becomes more complex. Will Joel’s behavior improve, or will it spiral further out of control? With the support of his friends and family, Ross may find a way to steer Joel in the right direction—but the road ahead will not be easy. Fans will be eagerly watching to see how this father-son dynamic develops in the coming episodes.